What’s in a name?
Everything! Well especially one that includes the word ‘unity’ which has many layers of meaning. "Unity Through Yoga" encapsulates the essence of yoga's meaning and purpose. "Yoga" signifies union, bringing together the mind, body, and spirit through practice. By integrating traditional yoga texts and philosophy with modern practice, we aim to unify ancient wisdom with contemporary understanding. Our ultimate goal is to create a space where different yoga styles, teachers and students converge, fostering unity within the diverse yoga community.
The Lotus Flower
The lotus flower serves as a powerful symbol of non-attachment and growth in various spiritual traditions, embodying the wisdom that beauty can arise from the depths of adversity. Rooted in the murky depths of ponds and lakes, the lotus draws nutrients from the muddy waters, yet it remains unstained by the impurities that surround it. The lotus exemplifies the concept that true beauty exists even while rooted in the mud. It symbolizes the practice of non-attachment in which individuals can cultivate inner peace, resilience, and learn to thrive amidst challenging circumstances.
Steve Clark
My journey into yoga began as a teenager after I picked up a book that was left on a table at home. Curiosity led me to give it a go and I discovered a totally different world from the one I was growing up in. After discovering a copy of ‘The Meditators Handbook’ (Fontana, 1992), I began an exploration of meditation practices. With Yoga as the springboard, I experimented with Kung Fu, Chan Style Tai Chi, and hard-core endurance Zen Buddhist meditation practices. I haven’t always followed the best path, and my 20s and 30s were all about pushing myself to my physical and mental limits which just led to burnout and injuries. These days I am much kinder on my body and mind, and I have returned full circle to Yoga to restore balance.
What captivates me most about yoga is its holistic nature – an art that seamlessly weaves together movement, breath, and mindfulness. Being hyperactive by nature, it allows me to find stillness in movement. Through this practice, I've come to appreciate yoga as a powerful vehicle for enhancing mobility, building strength, and calming an unruly mind. As I move into my 50th decade, I see more than ever the benefits yoga can bring to improving our quality of life as we age. It’s never too late to start yoga!
As well as building towards peak postures I like to include breathwork and finish with deep relaxation. My classes are practical and adapted to the needs of all levels of physical ability - Yoga is not just for the young and bendy! Join me in embracing yoga as a tool for self-discovery and well-being, making it an integral part of your own journey towards a balanced and healthy life.
Steve is a student teacher on the Diploma in Teaching Yoga Course (500 hours) with the British Wheel of Yoga (BWY-38717).